Israel fears Hezbollah could get arms from Syria

Jerusalem: Israeli defence officials say they are increasingly concerned that Lebanese militants could get their hands on weapons from violence-wracked Syria.

The officials say their main worry is that with the chaos in Syria mounting, Hezbollah guerrillas could acquire Syrian military S-125 anti-aircraft missiles, which could hinder operations by the Israeli Air Force.

The officials say they are also worried Hezbollah may acquire Syrian chemical weapons and an array of Syrian missiles able to strike deep into Israel.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorised to discuss confidential security discussions.

Israel fought a monthlong war with Hezbollah, which is backed by Syria and Iran, in the summer of 2006.